What are concussions?
Concussions, or traumatic brain injuries, are injuries that affect brain functioning. The effects of concussions are often temporary, but getting proper treatment and rest is crucial for making a full recovery. See the specialists at Neurology Center of Wichita Falls: Jessica L. Schultz, MD, at the first sign of a head injury.
What are the symptoms of a concussion?
Common symptoms of concussions include:
- Ringing in your ears
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Memory loss
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
- Blurry vision
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Slurred speech
- Delayed reaction times
- Forgetfulness
- Dazed appearance
- Difficulty concentrating
- Sleep disturbances
- Personality changes
- Irritability
- Light or sound sensitivity
- Depression
- Taste and smell disorders
Symptoms of a concussion might not appear right away. They could develop a few hours or even days after a head injury and last for days, weeks, or longer in some cases.
Complications that can occur because of a concussion include vertigo, long-lasting headaches or dizziness, and the risk of second-impact syndrome (SIS). This syndrome develops when a second concussion occurs before your body heals from the first head injury. It can result in dangerous, rapid brain swelling.
What are the risk factors for a concussion?
Some of the most common risk factors for getting a concussion include:
- Playing contact sports
- Falling down
- Being in a car accident
- Undergoing physical abuse
- Having a previous concussion
- Being in military combat
Any time you suffer a blow to your head, you’re at risk of a concussion. Wearing protective headgear while playing contact sports and wearing a seatbelt when riding in a car can reduce your risk of a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
How does my provider diagnose a concussion?
To diagnose a concussion, the team reviews your symptoms, medical history, and accident history. They checks your blood pressure and other vital signs and completes a physical exam, including a neurological examination. They may complete cognitive testing and imaging procedures, such as an MRI or a CT scan.
The team assesses your vision, hearing, balance, coordination, reflexes, and strength. They assess your memory, concentration, and ability to recall information.
How are concussions treated?
The team personalizes each concussion treatment based on its severity. You should have someone observe you at home and check on you periodically. They may need to wake you up regularly until you begin to recover.
Getting physical and mental rest is important. That means avoiding physical activities and those that require mental concentration and thinking, such as playing video games, reading, doing school work, and watching television. You might need temporary pain relief for headaches.
Gradually increase activities as directed by Dr. Shultz and her team, and see them for follow-up exams. When all your symptoms are gone and you’ve recovered, they can clear you to resume your usual daily routine.
To get evaluated after a suspected concussion, call the Neurology Center of Wichita Falls: Jessica L. Schultz, MD, office or schedule an appointment online today.